Disability pride: how to build a workplace where everyone can thrive

July marks Disability Pride Month, which raises the importance of awareness and positive conversations about disability in the workplace.

Disability is part of the human experience. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 1.3 billion people globally lives with some form of significant disability. This equates to 16% of the world's population, or 1 in 6 of us.

In recent decades, significant progress has been made worldwide in advancing dialogues that promote inclusion and champion disability pride.

However, there is still work to be done. For employers, embracing disability inclusion – to both support and celebrate their workers with disabilities – is not just a moral imperative, but a strategic advantage that can enhance workplace culture and drive business success.

By understanding and celebrating disability pride, organizations can unlock the full potential of their workforce, promote innovation, and build a more equitable and productive environment. So, how can we foster greater inclusion within the workplace and ensure that everyone has the opportunity to thrive? 

What is disability pride?

In the UAE the rights of disabled people – or people of determination – are enshrined in law, to protect them from discrimination and ensure their right to work on an equal basis. And today, there is a greater emphasis than ever before on not just recognizing and protecting, but also celebrating the importance of diversity within the workplace. 

This has led to the creation of Disability Pride Month, which celebrates the identities and contributions of individuals with disabilities. 

It emphasizes self-acceptance and advocacy, and it also seeks to change the way that people think about and define disability, to end social stigmas and break down barriers. At its core, disability pride is about recognizing and valuing the diversity that disability brings to our communities and workplaces.

Why disability pride matters in the workplace

In the corporate world, embracing disability pride is crucial for several reasons. It fosters an inclusive culture where all employees feel valued and respected, leading to increased morale and productivity. Celebrating disability pride also enhances a company's reputation, making it more attractive to top talent and diverse customers. 

But most importantly, it drives innovation by bringing different perspectives to the table, ultimately contributing to better problem-solving and creativity. By understanding and integrating disability pride, businesses can build stronger, more dynamic workplaces that benefit everyone.

Strategies for building an inclusive workplace

So, how can you ensure that your workplace goes above and beyond legal requirements and compliance, to ensure a positive working environment for all?

1. Diversity and inclusion policy

Start by making clear policies that show your company’s commitment to the inclusion of people with disabilities – this should fall within a wider diversity and inclusion framework. 

These policies should explain how to accommodate employees' needs, prevent discrimination, and provide equal chances for career growth. Make sure everyone in the company knows about these policies and review them regularly to keep them effective.

1. Accessibility

Secondly, ensure your workplace is accessible for everyone. This means making sure your office spaces are easy to navigate for people who use wheelchairs and that common areas are accessible. Also, make sure that your digital platforms are user-friendly by following Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG). This includes adding text descriptions to images, using readable color schemes, and ensuring all digital content can be navigated using a keyboard.

1. Recruitment

It’s also worth reviewing your recruitment practises beyond the legal requirements. Is your hiring process as inclusive as possible? Ensuring job postings are easy to read and stating clearly that your company welcomes applications from people with disabilities is crucial. Providing adjustments where necessary, such as remote interviews, can also be beneficial. 

1. Training and Education

Offer training programs that teach employees and managers about disability inclusion. These programs should cover topics like recognizing unconscious bias, and understanding the importance of inclusive practises. Regular workshops and seminars can help build a more supportive and understanding workplace.

1. Support Systems

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Provide tools and support to help employees with disabilities succeed. This could include screen readers, voice recognition software, ergonomic furniture, or flexible work schedules. Make it easy for employees to request accommodations, and ensure their privacy when doing so.

Also consider implementing Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) for those with disabilities. ERGs provide a platform for employees to share experiences, offer mutual support, and advocate for positive changes in the workplace. They help build a sense of community and belonging, which can improve employee morale and retention. ERGs can also provide valuable insights to management on how to improve policies and practices to better support employees with disabilities.

1. Healthcare

Not all disabilities are visible, but many can adversely impact a person’s physical and mental health. Ensure that your workplace healthcare plan covers a wide range of medical services, including those specifically needed by people with disabilities. 

For example, GulfCare’s comprehensive corporate health plans are designed with flexibility in mind, to best meet the unique needs of your employees. From our Employee Assistance Programs, which include access to mental health consultations and support, to our tele-heath services and Hospital at Home® Program, which provides quality care and 24/7 monitoring, 

Employees with a chronic or pre-existing condition which may be linked to their disability also benefit from features such as our Chronic Medication Scheme (CMS). This ensures that your employees can get their regular medication dispensed and delivered quickly and efficiently, without the need for a consultation.

Make sure that employees are aware of these benefits and know how to access them. 

Disability is a broad spectrum that encompasses a diverse range of abilities and perspectives. By embracing disability pride and fostering inclusive workplaces, companies can harness the unique strengths and talents of all employees.

To learn more about GulfCare’s tailor-made healthcare plans, contact us today.